President Yoweri Museveni has made significant changes in Uganda’s civil service, reshuffling several Permanent Secretaries to improve government efficiency. This update was shared by Lucy Nakyobe Mbonye, the Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet.
One of the most notable changes involves Dunstan Balaba, who has been reassigned from his position as Permanent Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM). Balaba, who took over after the late Keith Muhakanizi, was known for his efforts in building a strong team and mentoring younger civil servants. He will now serve as the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Ethics and Integrity, replacing Alex Okello Obwangmoi, who was reportedly dismissed due to serious accountability issues.
Obwangmoi has been appointed as the new Principal Private Secretary (PPS) for Vice President Jessica Alupo. This decision raised some eyebrows, particularly since it was said that Alupo preferred working closely with her Deputy PPS, Mzee Kityamuweesi Musubire.
Taking over Balaba’s former position at the OPM is Alex Kakooza, an experienced civil servant with a strong background in government operations. Kakooza previously served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and was praised for his support of First Lady Janet Museveni during her time in office.
Kakooza faces challenges ahead, particularly because funding issues have often hindered effective operations at the OPM. However, it was suggested that with improved financial support, he would be able to implement positive changes and address ongoing problems.
President Museveni has also created a new position: 2nd Deputy Head of Public Service at the OPM. Jane Mwesigwa, a retired civil servant with extensive experience in human resources from her time at the Local Government Ministry, has been brought back to fill this role.
This strategic move aims to lessen Kakooza’s workload and enhance performance management across various ministries. With Mwesigwa focusing on performance management duties, it is expected that Kakooza could dedicate more time to specific challenges within the OPM.
These changes indicate President Museveni’s proactive approach to strengthening leadership within key ministries while addressing past accountability concerns. As these new appointments take effect, many observers will be watching closely to see how they impact governance and public service delivery in Uganda. The hope is that with these fresh faces and clearly defined roles, the government will meet the needs of its citizens.
Source: mulengera news
